Raising Safe Drivers is Simple
The day your child finally becomes old enough to get their driver's license is stressful for many parents. Even if you've been teaching them how to drive for months and they've successfully completed a few trips around the block, sending them out on their own can be scary.
One of the best ways to have peace of mind when a teen driver is in the house is to teach them how to incorporate defensive driving techniques into their everyday life. Here are three things to keep in mind when doing so.
1. The Importance of Defensive Driving
Defensive driving has proven time and time again to be the safest driving technique that any motorist can use. These methods remind drivers to keep their attention on the road in order to effectively assess and separate potential hazards that may arise.
When you teach your kids early on that defensive driving techniques are there to help you instead of hurt, they can easily add these in without hesitation. Here are some examples:
- Routinely check your blind spots and rearview mirror for other vehicles.
- Avoid lingering in the blind spot of another driver.
- Scan the road ahead and surrounding areas between every song.
- Never assume what another driver is going to do.
- Limit distractions in your vehicle—this includes electronic devices, loud music, rowdy passengers, and eating and drinking.
2. Model Safe Driving Habits
Whether we want to admit it or not, our teens take on the driving habits they've been shown their entire lives. This is why it's essential to model safe driving habits early on. If you're someone who frequently uses their cell phone while driving, erratically changes lanes or speeds, there is a high probability that your teen will do these things too without realizing it.
By using defensive driving techniques in your everyday life, especially while teaching your teen to drive, you encourage safer behavior without having to explicitly say anything.
3. Enroll Teens in a Defensive Driving Course
Although several defensive driving techniques are taught during your standard driver's education, enrolling your teen in an official defensive driving course is also a great idea. Not only will they get to learn effective roadway safety tips and strategies, but you may also get a discount on your insurance premiums depending on your provider.
Las Vegas Car Accident Attorneys
The team at Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen is committed to improving roadway safety by holding negligent drivers accountable for the injuries they cause. If you were severely injured or a loved one was killed in a motor vehicle accident, we are here to help you seek justice.
Call (702) 505-8115 or fill out this short form to schedule a free consultation today.